The Star (Malaysia) reported on a controversy in India’s West Bengal state after eggs were removed from government school meals and replaced with vegetarian alternatives. Critics argue the change could affect student attendance and nutrition, while supporters say plant-based foods can provide equivalent nutrients.
The article cites a 2021 IFPRI-led study that found India’s Mid-Day Meal Scheme has played an important role in reducing child stunting, underscoring the nutritional benefits of school feeding programs.
This refers to the 2021 Nature Communications study, “Intergenerational nutrition benefits of India’s national school feeding program,” co-authored by IFPRI researchers Suman Chakrabarti, Samuel Scott, Harold Alderman, Purnima Menon, and Daniel Gilligan.